Rhetorical Strategies in Editorials on Kidnapping in Selected Nigerian Newspapers

Abstract

This study addressed a research gap in the analysis of rhetorical 
strategies employed in Nigerian newspaper editorials on kidnapping, a 
pressing socio-political issue. The primary objectives were to identify 
and examine the predominant rhetorical strategies used, assess their 
distribution across selected newspapers, and evaluate their 
effectiveness in shaping public discourse. A qualitative research design 
was adopted, analysing editorials from four major Nigerian 
newspapers. The study found that Ethos was the most frequently used 
strategy, reflecting a strong reliance on credibility and ethical appeals. 
Logos closely followed, indicating the use of logical arguments and 
factual evidence, while Pathos, though less frequent, was employed to 
evoke emotional responses. The study also revealed variations in 
strategy use across different newspapers, suggesting editorial styles 
and target audiences influenced rhetorical choices. The study 
concluded that editorial writers strategically combined these rhetorical 
approaches to engage readers and influence opinion on kidnapping 
issues. This study contributes new knowledge providing, a detailed 
understanding of how Nigerian editorial writers construct persuasive 
arguments in the context of national security challenges, bridging a 
significant gap in media rhetoric research in Nigeria. This research 
provides a foundation for further studies on media influence in socio-political advocacy and contributes to the broader discourse on the role of rhetoric in journalism.